Solar Panels Cost 2.9k-14k in Hawaii | April, 2025

Solar Panels Cost $2.9k-$14k in Hawaii | April, 2025

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How much do solar panels cost in Hawaii in 2025?

It averages out to $4.22 per watt in the month of April, 2025 in Hawaii to go solar.

Expect costs to be $4,220, on average, for every 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of solar energy your solar system will need to generate. In Hawaii, you can expect to pay about $14,770 for a 5 kW panel install once the 30% federal income tax credit is factored in. To adequately cover your energy demands, you could require more than a 5 kW system.

To the left, you can choose your county to see the typical roof size and average maximum capacity for residential solar on homes in your area. You can also see an overview of the costs, payback period and 20 year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county below.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Hawaii: $14,770US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Hawaii: 6 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Hawaii: $29,743US Average: $16,806

Solar Potential in Hawaii

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Hawaii.

Roof size 1,162sq. ft.
Capacity 16.25kW DC
Electricity 24.1kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Hawaii & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

Hawaii's average monthly kWh consumption is 500, with the average electric bill around $211.85. Compact living spaces, such as apartments and cottages, are also covered in the figures provided in the prior sentence.

In April 2025, the electricity rate in Hawaii is on average 42.39¢ per kWh.

The typical energy user in Hawaii will require 5 kW or more solar setup to account for their entire energy consumption demands. At the moment, 5 kW solar system is priced at around $21,100 before incentives, but the federal tax credit offers a 30% credit, the cost comes to $14,770.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Hawaii

On your left, we have displayed a detailed pricing details for multiple solar panel system sizes installed in Hawaii. Naturally, a larger solar system implies a greater upfront cost, but it also leads to more significant electricity savings and higher income tax credits.

In the solar panel cost calculator located to the right and below, you can see a cost and benefit breakdown to match an average $211.85 electric bill in Hawaii. Adjust the $211.85 to your typical electricity bill payment for customized results.

System Size 1kW
Roof Size Min. space required
72 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $631 a year
Est. Price
$2,954
Savings from a 1kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 1,488 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $53
  • Full payback in 1 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 46 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,473 mi less a year
System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,262 a year
Est. Price
$5,908
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,977 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $105
  • Full payback in 2 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 92 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,947 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,893 a year
Est. Price
$8,862
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,465 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $158
  • Full payback in 3 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 138 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,420 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,524 a year
Est. Price
$11,816
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,953 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $210
  • Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 184 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,894 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $3,155 a year
Est. Price
$14,770
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,442 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $212
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.03 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 185 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,974 mi less a year

Hawaii Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2025

Rural small business and farm owners might benefit from the REAP Grant, which could cover 80% to 100% of their solar energy or wind energy installation expenses. Curious if you fall into this category? Confirm your eligibility with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

With the availability of a 30% federal income tax credit, solar energy becomes a feasible solution for most homeowners, particularly in numerous parts of the country. A number of state and local programs are set up to increase the adoption of solar energy.

In Hawaii, 15 solar rebates and incentives are currently available from different utilities and government agencies.

Solar and Wind Energy Credit (Personal)

Value:Up to $2,250

Beginning in the 1976 tax year, Hawaii businesses have been entitled to income tax credits on new renewable energy devices. The exact rates and amounts of exemptions vary depending on property classification and the specific type of energy system being installed. In each classification, "hard maximums" apply based on the retail price of the system. Amendments to the tax code have since allowed for credit amounts to be paid out as refunds or used toward income liability for the appropriate tax year. Additional information is available on the Hawaii Department of Taxation website.

Solar Water Heater Rebate

Value:Up to $500

Residential customers of the Hawaiian Electric Company, Maui Electric Company, or Hawaii Electric Light Company may be entitled to a one-time rebate to install or replace a solar water heater. Two rebate options, flat rates of $500 or $750, are available depending on the cost of the system. Either rebate will be paid to the solar contractor installing the water heater, meaning it will appear to the customer as a bill credit. Qualifying systems should satisfy all state standards for solar water heating and pass a final inspection from the utility. The program is available on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Molokai, and Lanai. Additional information is available from the HEC website.

Solar and Wind Energy Credit (Corporate)

Value:Up to $2,250

Beginning in the 1976 tax year, Hawaii residents have been entitled to income tax credits on new renewable energy devices. The exact rates and amounts of exemptions vary depending on property classification and the specific type of energy system being installed. In each classification, "hard maximums" apply based on the retail price of the system. Amendments to the tax code have since allowed for credit amounts to be paid out as refunds or used toward income liability for the appropriate tax year. Additional information is available on the Hawaii Department of Taxation website.

Distributed Generation Tariffs

Value:Varies

Interconnected renewable energy and distributed generation customers throughout Hawaii may be compensated for using their system through either grid-supply or Smart Export tariffs (net metering was abolished in 2015.) Under grid-supply tariffs, customer-generators will be credited on their monthly bills for energy sent back to the grid. Unlike net metering, the utility has direct control over how much energy is returned; this is to protect the grid and standardize capacity as per requirements. Different islands have different rate schedules, and rates will vary from time to time. Smart Export tariffs apply to renewable energy systems containing a separate storage module. Excess generation from the system will be used to charge the battery during the daytime, and this energy will be returned to the grid at night. Like grid-supply programs, different islands have different rate schedules for this excess generation. "Community-based tariffs" may apply for microgrid subscribers. These programs function similarly to individual systems, but compensation will be distributed to all subscribers in the proper proportions.

GreenSun Hawaii

Value:Varies

GreenSun Hawaii is an established loss reserve funded by the 2009 federal stimulus package. A variety of lenders throughout the state may tap into the fund to secure loans for homeowners seeking to install new renewable energy devices or make energy efficiency improvements. By having their loans secured, lenders are incentivized to offer lower rates and more optimal terms. Eligible projects include solar PV/water heating/HVAC systems, windows, insulation/weatherization, and ENERGY STAR certified appliances. Interested homeowners should visit the program website to find their local GreenSun lender.

City and County of Honolulu - Solar Loan Program

Value:Varies

Low to moderate-income homeowners in Honolulu or greater Oahu may be eligible for specialized financing on new solar PV/water heating systems, including any necessary roofing work for a successful installation. Condominium owners may also be eligible contingent on approval from their association. Loans come at zero interest, but they may be secured by a mortgage lien if the principal exceeds $10,000. Application forms are available from the City/County of Honolulu website.

Renewables and Efficiency in State Facilities & Operations

Value:Varies

In 2006, Hawaii governor Linda Lingle established new renewable energy standards for state agencies to follow by signing HB 2175. The new law contained: • a minimum LEED Silver certification requirement for all new state buildings, • a solar water heating requirement for all new state buildings, • a requirement for agencies to implement common-sense water and energy saving operational measures, • an order for agencies to purchase only environmentally-friendly products, • and a directive for agencies to track emissions from vehicles. Compliance with the law is measured through annual reports addressed to the legislature.

KIUC - Solar Water Heating Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Energy Wise is a program for commercial customer-members of the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Through the program, property owners may receive free advisory services for their energy efficiency and renewable energy needs. A new initiative under Energy Wise awards new solar water heating installations with a $1000 rebate. Eligible systems may be brand new or replace an existing solar water heater over 15 years of age. Additional information is available from the KIUC website.

Feed-in-Tariff

Value:Varies

NOTE: This program is no longer accepting participants. Solar PV, wind, and hydro customers of HECO, MECO, and HELCO may be eligible for the state's feed-in tariff program. Under the program, utilities may sign 20-year contracts to obtain the excess generation from the system in exchange for a fixed rate. Rates vary depending on the method of generation, the rated capacity of the system, and the island on which the system is located. Additional information is available from the Hawaii Department of Energy website.

Solar Contractor Licensing

Value:Varies

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is responsible for issuing contracting licenses in the state. A variety of specialized solar work licenses are available depending on an applicant's training and vocational experience. Solar contracting licenses include C-60 (solar power), C-61 (solar energy), C-61a (solar hot water), and C-61b (solar HVAC). Each license has a separate exam, but all require four years of experience. To install and professionally repair the full breadth of solar PV systems, contractors should pursue a C-13 electrical license, which includes all the privileges of a C-60 solar power license. Plumbing contractors with license C-37 may work with solar water heaters. General contractors have the privileges afforded by a C-61 license. Depending on the license a solar contractor holds, they may need to subcontract certain plumbing or electrical jobs if they do not have the required license. State law requires licensed electricians/plumbers to sign off on any new PV or solar water heater.

City and County of Honolulu - Real Property Tax Exemption for Alternative Energy Improvements

Value:Varies

Any private renewable energy system in Honolulu carries a 25-year local tax exemption by ordinance of the city council. Solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric systems qualify for an exemption, as do systems improving energy efficiency at fossil fuel plants. Geothermal and nuclear systems are not exempt. Additional information is available from the Real Property Assessment Division website.

KIUC - Solar Water Heating Loan Program

Value:Varies

Residential members of the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative may be eligible for specialized financing on solar water heaters. Funding may be used to install a new system or replace an existing one over 15 years of age. Loans are serviced by the Kauai Community Federal Credit Union. There is no interest or down payment (both are covered by the utility.) The maximum repayment period is 60 months. The application process involves standard credit checks and a pre-installation audit by KIUC to determine compliance with state standards. Additional information is available from the KIUC website.

Renewable Portfolio Standard

Value:Varies

Beginning in 2009, the Hawaii state government has established a legally binding renewable portfolio standard (RPS) for itself. Previously, RPS laws included provisions for both new renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements/offsets; however, only projects falling under the former category meet RPS requirements as of 2015. By 2030, at least 40% of all energy generated in Hawaii must be from renewable sources. 100% of Hawaii's energy should be renewable by 2045. Compliance is measured through a Renewable Energy Credit system and reports sent to the legislature every five years. Additional information is available from the Hawaii Department of Energy website.

Hawaii Energy

Value:Varies

The Hawaii Energy benefits fund supports new renewable energy and energy efficiency incentive programs throughout the state, including public investments toward RPS standards. The fund is supported by a surcharge on all customer utility bills, and its annual budget is determined by each utility's demand. Currently, funds support public bonds for new renewable farms and incentive programs overseen by utilities on five islands. Additional information is available on the fund's website.

Farm and Aquaculture Alternative Energy Loan

Value:Varies

Hawaiian farmers, including fish farmers, may be eligible for special financing from the state government to fund energy efficiency/renewable energy improvement projects. Loans have a maximum principal of 85% of the applicant's project costs up to $1.5 million. Interest rates vary between agriculture and aquacultural property, but they will range from 3 - 5% on unpaid principal only. Repayment periods may extend up to forty years. Loans are serviced by the state Department of Agriculture. The application process includes standard credit checks. Additional information is available from the DOA website.

Are solar panels worth it in Hawaii?

If you intend to own your residence longer than the solar system's payback period, solar panels are a smart investment in Hawaii. In Hawaii, the installation of a 5 kW solar system can save you an average of $36,072.95 over 20 years, with an average break even point of 6 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Hawaii

Opting not to have solar panels or a separate backup energy solution results in you missing out on the savings noted earlier and leaves you fully reliant on your electric utility for electricity. As shown by recent news stories, total reliance on your utility company is not always ideal.

Lately, utilities in Hawaii have had an average of 1.44 outages per customer annually. On average, an outage lasts 122.37 minutes. When major events such as landslides, vandalism, or overloaded power grids occur, these durations can increase significantly

See the info below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Hawaii.

Regardless of whether a backup battery is present, a solar panel system could reduce the impact of future power outages you might face.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Hawaii.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Hawaii?

Your Energy Needs -With larger solar panel systems, the cost per watt decreases, despite the greater upfront expense. Many consumers realize it's a great idea to install a solar system that can make enough power to replace their electric bill, because it helps them reduce costs.

Make & Model - Just like other products, solar panels come in a variety of makes and models. The brand preferences of your chosen installer can make it crucial to select a highly rated company. The utilization of high-quality models is expected to provide a more satisfactory long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard, and for valid reasons. Despite the higher price tag, these panels provide greater energy output. The majority of installation experts use panels constructed from this material.

Your Property - Things like rough terrain, trees, or other challenges may cause the installation to be more difficult. With the use of satellite images, the majority of solar installers nowadays can assess your home and incorporate these considerations into the initial cost estimate.

Labor Rates - The wages that companies offer their employees are different, and these expenses are inevitably reflected in consumer prices. Companies paying higher wages usually garner better reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility level interconnection fees change by area and will affect your final install price. That said, reputable local installers will be able to build these numbers into your first quotes so there are no surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other HI cities

See what solar panels cost in other HI counties

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Hawaii?

STI Solar

Lihue CDP, HI(808) 664-1052

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Haleakala Solar and Roofing

Aiea CDP, HI(808) 955-0050

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

OceanHead Solar & Electric

(808) 735-5745

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Nexamp

Boston, MA(855) 727-4636

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Orchid Isle Solar

Pahoa CDP, HI(808) 345-0660

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Renewable Energy Services (RES)

Honokaa CDP, HI(808) 775-7410

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Alternate Energy

Pearl City CDP, HI(808) 842-5853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

American Microgrid Solutions

Easton, MD(443) 496-2977

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

ATTYX

Lehi, UT(888) 908-8599

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Hawai'i Unified

Waianae CDP, HI(808) 695-8004

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Hawaii Pacific Solar

Lahaina CDP, HI(808) 661-1166

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Hawaii Solar & Wind

Wailuku CDP, HI(808) 276-3281

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

HI POWER Solar

Pearl City CDP, HI(808) 342-0802

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

K2D

Marina del Rey CDP, CA(310) 935-3773

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Malama Solar

(808) 425-9566

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Maui Solar Pros

Makawao CDP, HI(808) 927-9951

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Next Solar

South San Francisco, CA(650) 375-2430

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Photonworks Engineering

(808) 951-4100

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Poncho's Solar

East Honolulu CDP, HI(808) 744-0922

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

ProSolar Hawaii

Kailua CDP (Hawaii County), HI(808) 339-1106

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

ProVision Solar

Wailuku CDP, HI(808) 242-1102

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

RevoluSun

(808) 748-8888

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Rising Sun Solar

Kahului CDP, HI(808) 575-2202

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Solar Services Hawaii

Aiea CDP, HI(808) 721-3585

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.

Sunspear Energy

Urban Honolulu CDP, HI(808) 466-8604

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Tritium3

East Honolulu CDP, HI(808) 377-4408

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

WikiWiki Solar & Electric

Kahului CDP, HI(808) 244-9454

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Hawaii Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of April, 2025, the average per-watt cost for solar panels in Hawaii is $4.22/W. With the federal tax credit, the cost of a 5 kW solar panel system in Hawaii drops to roughly $14,770.

  • If you live in Hawaii, you can find 15 rebates and incentives through different utilities and government agencies. In addition, the 30% federal income tax credit is available to almost everyone.

  • Even though cash payments offer the greatest savings, several financing options for solar panels today are also cost-effective. Many installers collaborate with financing partners and will provide this information in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in Hawaii is 6 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $36,072.95.

  • Residents of Hawaii don't have a state program to pay them for solar installations, yet the 30% federal tax credit is accessible to all Americans.

  • Hawaii does not currently offer free solar panel programs, but the 30% federal income tax credit, accessible to nearly all US citizens, can considerably lower the cost of solar panel installation.
Alex Zdanov
Last Reviewed By: Alex Zdanov
Published: 2025-02-04